Relations between Greece and Türkiye, two neighboring states with a history of hostility, are seeing a significant thaw following a recent high-level cooperation meeting. Turkish President Erdogan journeyed to Athens on December 7 for the 5th Greece-Türkiye High-Level Cooperation Council, marking Erdogan’s first visit to Greece since 2017. During this meeting, the two nations signed a comprehensive set of 15 agreements, memoranda, and joint declarations.
The topics of agreements encompassed areas of education, commerce, energy, investments, sports, tourism, science, and development. Notably, a joint declaration emphasized peaceful and calm relations between the parties, complemented with further cooperation in the tourism sector. Greece promises a new visa program for Turkish tourists, easing travel to ten Greek islands.
Looking to foster the growth of friendly relations, an Agreement on Education outlined joint activities for teachers, students, and exchange programs. Collateral effects also include collaborations between the Ministries of Education and the recognition of diplomas.
The two nations used this opportunity to promote energy sharing, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Greece’s Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE) and the Turkish Electricity Transmission Company (TEIAS). This memorandum focuses on establishing a new interconnection line to intensify electrical interconnection.
Interestingly, further MoUs addressed business connections for small- and medium-sized enterprises in both nations, aiming for information and knowledge flow facilitation. Another MoU focuses on creating a stable and resilient investment environment.
The relationship between Greece and Türkiye has been historically complex, with several disputed issues looming. Disputes over sovereignty in the Aegean Sea, Cyprus’ status, and issues of minorities have been recurring points of conflict. Nevertheless, these recent measures taken in the path of cooperation might signal a softened stance from both parties that could pave the way to resolving these longstanding disputes.
The non-legally binding nature of these agreements does not erase their gravity. They demonstrate a robust intention to deepen relations and improve diplomatic and trade ties, which, according to Greek Minister of Migration Dimitris Kairidis, is already showing results. Evidence displays a reduction in illegal migration by 60% in the last two months, possible through better cooperation with Turkish coastal guards. You can find this information here.
To quote President Erdogan, ‘There is no issue between Türkiye and Greece that cannot be solved.’ This sentiment reveals the Turkish side’s willingness to resolve the issues through constructive dialogue and good neighborly relations, promising a brighter future for both nations.
This article, authored by Hasan Yaci, a Staff Correspondent for JURIST and a senior law student at Türkiye’s Galatasaray University in Istanbul, can be found in its entirety at this location. As international relations continue to evolve, it remains essential to follow these stories and understand their implications for the broader legal landscape.